Time is a weird thing when it comes to film production. We never really focus on that aspect of the industry, because outside of initial announcement of a project, followed by writers or directors, things can go quiet for a while. Take Dune for instance. The latest take on the Frank Herbert novel secured Arrival director Denis Villeneuve back in Janurary 31st…2017. Two years ago. Things moved like molasses, until earlier this summer, when Academy Award Nominee Timothée Chalamet accepted the lead role of Paul Atreides. Now, according to Deadline, Legendary Entertainment, who is producing the endeavor, is a step closer in getting someone to fill his mother’s shoes. It appears Rebecca Ferguson has entered into official negotiations, for the all important role of Lady Jessica.
Ferguson has been a hot commodity the last several years. With major roles in the last two Mission: Impossible films and The Greatest Showman. That’s not to mention already securing a spot in the upcoming Men In Black spin-off and Doctor Sleep, adapted from the Stephen King novel. Ferguson is the perfect person to slip into the part of the Benne Gesserit concubine of Duke Atredies. First of all, she’ll look killer in whatever insane costumes they come up with. Most importantly though, she has a knack for playing strong, empowered women with a sense of conviction. That’s tantamount to the role.
This also comes in a long line of minor breadcrumbs to be released surrounding the Dune production. Around the same time that the news broke about Chalamet, Brian Herbert (son of author Frank), confirmed the novel will be split into two films. One film is already an audacious undertaking, so the idea of two is pretty out there. Unless this is a case of them shooting two films back to back. That would be the best case scenario, given the denseness of the book.
For those who haven’t read Dune, put it to the top of your reading list. It’s a seminal work of science fiction literature. There is almost too much to boil down to a small synopsis. Save to say it involves warring families, struggling to control the major export of a desert planet, the people who live there and ancient destinies waiting to come to fruition. That’s just the tip of the iceberg. Thankfully, you have plenty of time to catch up with no release date in sight.
Do you all find this to be fantastic casting? Have you not read Dune before? Are you still pining over the never made Jodoworsky version? For that matter are you a staunch supporter of the David Lynch version? Sound off below, as we twiddle our thumbs for the next exciting tid bit to be released. As the Sy-Fy mini series was fond of repeating back in the day “the saga of Dune is far from over”.
